As the pandemic continues, more people are learning about food insecurity and understanding what existed before COVID-19 and how more families now need assistance. A group of people in Connecticut are not just learning. They are taking action. Their willingness to serve is the reason Midwest Food Bank announced the opening of another location in Hartford, CT, this week.
"We are grateful to have Midwest Food Bank's resources to help serve the food insecure in Central New England," says Joe Koch, a board member for the new location. "The pandemic has amplified the need and the timing seems right,"
Joining him on the board are Maxine Schneider, Heather Summers, and Brent Walder. They will be leading a team to find a location and build a staff. The Hartford area is about 90 minutes from Boston, a couple of hours from New York City, and can also impact Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
Before COVID 19, an estimated 1 in 8 people in Connecticut struggled with food insecurity. 2020 estimates show this number has increased to 1 in 6, including 1 in 4 children.
"I believe people will see this is the Lord's work," says Joe.
Midwest Food Bank New England is one of 10 locations in the United States that distributes food without cost to over 2,000 non-profit partners and social service agencies. MFB also has locations in East Africa and Haiti.